Bush Fire Danger Period is over, hazard reduction begins

At midnight on March 31, 36 Local Government Areas (LGAs) including Kempsey Shire saw the end of the BFDP, with fire agencies and land managers now turning their attention towards conducting hazard reduction works.

This includes planned burning across many areas of the State, where and when possible.

Superintendent Liz Ferris said all members of the public must still abide by the law when conducting their own hazard reduction burns as well.

"From Monday 1 April 2024, fire permits will no longer be required for the... Kempsey Local Government Areas and all other areas outside the BFDP," Supt Ferris said.

"Even though a fire permit is no longer required, residents must still notify their neighbours and the local fire authority 24 hours before burning.

"Before lighting up, people should also have sufficient equipment on hand to control and contain the fire to their property and call Triple Zero (000) immediately should the fire escape their property.

"There is always the potential for fires to threaten life, property and the environment, if they are not managed correctly."

Supt. Ferris said the local community should not become complacent to the danger of bush and grass fires, even during autumn and winter months.

"Local fire danger ratings will continue to be issued daily, giving the community an indication of their fire risk year-round," Supt. Ferris said.

"I urge all residents to take the threat of bush fire seriously and to prepare their families and home now.

"Your local fire station or Fire Control Centre can provide advice on how to safely undertake hazard reduction work and how to best prepare yourself, your property and your family for the next bush fire season."

Supt. Ferris suggests top priority should be an update of the household bush fire survival plan.

You can notify the RFS of your intention to burn online at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify. More information is also available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/BFDP.